1998 Volvo S70 GLT - Considering a Restoration

pauleads · Post by **pauleads** » 28 Jul 2014, 21:09

So, here's my Volvo story. Bought new in 1998. Drove it for 10 years and then entrusted it to my two sons during their high school years. It made it through their abuse but now is looking like it could use a restoration. New carpet, mats, leather for seats, inside door panels, headliner, gear shift knob, is needed. On the exterior a few door dings, scratch repair, and front spoiler are in need of attention. Mechanically, the car has had some work done so it runs well. I'm not much of a do-it-yourself car repair guy but can manage the easier things. So, my question is: "can someone advise me on what this might cost me to have someone do (parts and labor)?" Also, anything else I should consider doing to ensure a longer life?

Post by **JRL** » 29 Jul 2014, 05:10

Probably not worth it unless it has ultra low mileage.
Some of the things you mentioned can be pretty cheap to do, others not so cheap.
I did (own, bought and sold, restored) these cars (P80s) for years, but one person's definition of what they think it needs and what I do could be completely different

Post by **abscate** » 29 Jul 2014, 05:49

Paul..for a daily driver these cars do need the owner top do work to stay economical. If you can budget 1500 for repairs a year paid out and the car is in good shape, then fix it up. The people here who do their own fixes spend 1/5 that.

There are some talented people here who have written threads on interior stuff. Pick n pull stuff is the way to go...just get your name in good with the people who go these so you can get what you need!

Post by **precopster** » 29 Jul 2014, 06:09

At 306,000kms (190,000 miles) my 2000 V70 is in a constant state of restoration. Last week I rebuilt inner tie rod, outer tie rod, control arm and brake pads however only on the driver's side

Next week the passenger side awaits. I've already rebuilt/replaced front shocks, spring seats, link rods, heater core and radiator and that's just in the last 35,000 miles. I haven't even gone near the rear suspension so I dread what awaits.

I even did my own wheel alignment by looking it up on You Tube.

If I employed a mechanic for this job and the other little niggly things I need to restore (broken floor boards in cargo area, sticking gearshift button, ABS module rebuild) I might as well buy a new car and enjoy my weekends again.

What sort of mileage has the car and what maintenence has already been done? These answers will give us an idea on how to advise you on what may be in the cards for your car.

Post by **rspi** » 29 Jul 2014, 07:18

Clean the cosmetic stuff and focus on the mechanical stuff. If you don't DIY, just get rid of it.

Post by **JRL** » 29 Jul 2014, 08:17

And therein lies the problem.
Most people cannot do their own work especially on these cars.
Dealers and many independent shops rip you off in labor, parts, for the most part, are expensive and these cars need to be rebuilt every 100K miles or so.

It's a shame really, a P80 (GEN 1) Volvo is one of, if not THE most comfortable car on the planet.
However and unfortunately they are over (or under) engineered and require constant maintenance after they reach 60-70K miles.

pauleads · Post by **pauleads** » 31 Jul 2014, 19:53

Thx for the feedback. I'm going to tackle the minor cosmetic stuff first as one responder suggested and focus my money on the mechanical side.

Post by **dosbricks** » 31 Jul 2014, 21:38

Same here in that we bought my wife's S70 new in '98 and acquired the wagon the next year. Even though they get regular maintenance, JRL is right when he says these cars need extensive work about every 100k. I've put about $1800 in parts into the S70 Jan.-May this year. But it is a good looking ride, paid for, and dependable. Components just wear out.